A nurse is assessing a client who is 2 hours postoperative following a gastrectomy. Which of the following findings should the nurse report to the provider?
- A. Heart rate of 94/min
- B. Oxygen saturation of 88%
- C. Respiratory rate of 18/min
- D. Temperature of 37.6°C (99.7°F)
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: An oxygen saturation of 88% indicates hypoxemia, which is a serious condition post-gastrectomy. Hypoxemia can lead to inadequate oxygen delivery to tissues, potentially causing complications like organ dysfunction or failure. This finding requires immediate attention to prevent further deterioration. The heart rate, respiratory rate, and temperature are within normal ranges for a client post-gastrectomy, so they do not require immediate reporting to the provider.
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What is the best intervention for a patient presenting with respiratory distress?
- A. Administer oxygen
- B. Administer bronchodilators
- C. Reposition the patient
- D. Provide humidified air
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Administering oxygen is the most critical intervention for a patient in respiratory distress as it helps improve oxygenation levels. Oxygen therapy aims to increase oxygen saturation in the blood, providing relief and support during episodes of respiratory distress. Administering bronchodilators may be beneficial in some cases, but oxygen therapy takes precedence in addressing the underlying issue of inadequate oxygenation. Repositioning the patient may help optimize ventilation but does not directly address the primary need for increased oxygen. Providing humidified air can offer comfort but does not address the urgent need for improved oxygen levels in a patient experiencing respiratory distress.
A client with type 2 diabetes mellitus is scheduled for an arteriogram. Which of the following medications should the nurse instruct the client to discontinue 48 hours prior to the procedure?
- A. Atorvastatin
- B. Digoxin
- C. Nifedipine
- D. Metformin
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D, Metformin. Metformin should be discontinued 48 hours before an arteriogram due to the risk of lactic acidosis. Atorvastatin (Choice A) is a statin used to lower cholesterol levels and is not typically contraindicated before an arteriogram. Digoxin (Choice B) is a medication used for heart conditions and does not need to be discontinued before an arteriogram. Nifedipine (Choice C) is a calcium channel blocker used to treat high blood pressure and angina, and it is not necessary to discontinue before the procedure.
Which of the following is the most concerning electrolyte imbalance for a patient on furosemide?
- A. Hypokalemia
- B. Hyperkalemia
- C. Hyponatremia
- D. Hypercalcemia
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is Hypokalemia. Furosemide, a loop diuretic, can lead to potassium depletion in the body, causing hypokalemia. This is a significant concern as low potassium levels can result in cardiac arrhythmias and other serious complications. Hyperkalemia (Choice B) is unlikely to occur as a result of furosemide use. Hyponatremia (Choice C) is more commonly associated with thiazide diuretics. Hypercalcemia (Choice D) is not typically linked to furosemide use.
How should a healthcare provider manage a patient with chronic kidney disease?
- A. Limit fluid intake
- B. Increase potassium intake
- C. Provide a high-protein diet
- D. Administer IV antibiotics
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Limiting fluid intake is essential in managing patients with chronic kidney disease to prevent fluid overload, which can worsen kidney function. Increasing potassium intake is not recommended as patients with kidney disease often need to limit potassium. Providing a high-protein diet may put extra strain on the kidneys, so it is not ideal. Administering IV antibiotics is not a standard treatment for chronic kidney disease.
A client is receiving radiation therapy to the head and neck. Which of the following interventions should the nurse include?
- A. Instruct the client to use an alcohol-free mouthwash.
- B. Apply heat packs to the radiation site.
- C. Provide a diet low in carbohydrates.
- D. Avoid exposure to direct sunlight during treatment.
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct intervention for a client receiving radiation therapy to the head and neck is to avoid exposure to direct sunlight. Direct sunlight should be avoided to protect the skin from further irritation and damage caused by the radiation therapy. Instructing the client to use an alcohol-free mouthwash is important to prevent irritation and maintain oral hygiene, making choice A incorrect. Applying heat packs to the radiation site is contraindicated as heat can further aggravate the skin, making choice B incorrect. Providing a diet low in carbohydrates is not directly related to radiation therapy to the head and neck, so choice C is also incorrect.